Diego Maradona has slapped down Cristiano Ronaldo for boasting he is the best footballer ever.

The Argentina legend, 57, called the Portugal star’s claims “nonsensical”.

Maradona, manager of Al-Fujairah SC in the United Arab Emirates, said: “I do not think Ronaldo is the best ever. Not at all. I respect him for the career he is enjoying, but nothing else.”

The Real Madrid star, 32, has said: “I have never seen anyone better than me.”

Diego Maradona during the World Cup draw (Image: TASS/Getty)

The 57-year-old Argentine, who currently manages in the United Arab Emirates second-tier division, made the comments after Ronaldo recently told media that he considers himself to be the best ever player.

Ronaldo’s remarks came during an interview following the presentation of his fifth Ballon d’Or award last month.

“I am the best player in football history, considering all the good and bad moments,” Ronaldo chimed. “I respect everyone’s opinion, but I have never seen anyone better than me.

“I have always thought that. No footballer can do the things I can. There is not a more complete player than I am.”

Cristiano Ronaldo recently said he believed he was the greatest (Image: Angel Martinez)

However, former world cup winner Maradona disagrees: “Everyone has the right to say what they want, even nonsensical things, but I do not think that Ronaldo is the best ever player. Not at all.

“I respect him for the career he is enjoying, but nothing else. To start talking about being the best in the history of the sport, he still has a lot to prove,” the Argentine idol said.

With regards to his country’s chances at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, Maradona stated: “I have no hope for Argentina. The new coach arrived last year but has not had many positive results.”